County hires new director of social services

Yolo County Administrator Patrick Blacklock has announced the appointment of Joan M. Planell as director of the Department of Employment & Social Services. Planell will fill the position currently held by Interim Director Ed Smith. Since 2008, she has served as deputy director of the Arlington County Human Services Department in Arlington, Va.

“Joan Planell has over 30 years’ experience in social service programs and brings national experience for serving clients in need and integrating services,” Blacklock said in a news release. “In addition to her technical background, I have great confidence that her leadership skills will help our team strengthen our programs and services as we implement major changes such as the Affordable Care Act.”

Before moving to Virginia, Planell was the director of social services in Montgomery County Maryland. She holds a bachelor of science degree in psychology from Georgetown University and a master’s of social work and public policy, both from the University of Maryland.

“I am excited about moving to Yolo County and joining the Yolo County team,” she said in a news release. “I look forward to working with the department staff and community partners who serve the county’s children, adults and families and help them achieve their goals.”

Planell will assume her new responsibilities on Oct. 7. The annual salary range for this position is $144,276 to $175,368.